Vote to give parks the funding they need

Opinion

Tuesday, March 15th, 2005 10:00 PM

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The park district needs us to support the referendum in the April election. There is a compelling need to improve our park facilities, but the park district does not have the financial resources to do so. They do, however, have a solid five-year Capital Improvement Plan to make the needed improvements.

Intensive park use, coupled with the lack of financial resources, has created serious problems. Building systems are deteriorating, grounds are not maintained properly, vehicles are not being replaced, and computer systems are not upgraded. The park district does not have the funds necessary to address life safety work items. The Parks Infrastructure Committee, which I chaired, recommended a referendum as the best way to provide the necessary funds.

Parks enrich our lives. Their use for recreation is visible and obvious. People meet in the parks and form lasting relationships. Parks have a community building function. Children learn physical and social skills in the parks. Good parks improve the quality of life for all residents. Plants and trees in parks contribute to the health of our environment. Parks soften the edges of our urban life.

We must work together to raise the standards in our parks. To provide needed funds and a stable flow of capital funds in the future, please vote yes on the Parks Referendum in the April 5 election.